Synthetic Marijuana Abuse Warning Signs & Dangers

The Landing provides synthetic marijuana abuse treatment for men rooted in a science-based, research-supported clinical model to ensure a healthier, more satisfying life.

Understanding Synthetic Marijuana

Learn about synthetic marijuana and substance abuse

Synthetic marijuana, otherwise known as spice or K2, is a substance that keeps growing in popularity even though the dangers linked to the use of it can be life-threatening. Synthetic marijuana consists of a chemical compound that was initially created to mimic the effects of regular marijuana. However, the many different chemicals that are used to create these compounds have led to the development of a drug that is very dangerous to consume and does much more than mimic effects of traditional marijuana. In addition, the formulation of these compounds changes often when the substance is being created, which, in turn, can cause some batches to produce a pleasant high, while other batches can lead to psychosis. Sadly, just one use of synthetic marijuana has led to death.

Synthetic marijuana abuse statistics

The actual prevalence of synthetic marijuana abuse is unknown, however, there are a number of statistics regarding the dangers that the abuse of this substance can cause. For example, between January and June of 2014, poison control centers throughout the country reported almost 800 cases of synthetic marijuana exposure. Within a two-week period in March of 2014, emergency rooms within Louisiana said they treated more than 100 people for synthetic marijuana overdoses. In addition, in May of 2014, roughly 120 people within a five-day period in Texas overdosed on this substance, too.

Causes & Risk Factors

Causes and risk factors for synthetic marijuana abuse

The causes and risk factors connected to determining if one is more likely to abuse synthetic marijuana are included in the following:

Genetic: Similar to other substance use disorders, the development of synthetic marijuana use disorder is said to have a genetic link. Those with a family history of substance use disorders, conduct disorder, and/or antisocial personality disorder are more susceptible to abusing this substance than are those who do not have the same genetic makeup.

Environmental: The environment in which an individual lives can have a tremendous impact on his or her likelihood of developing synthetic marijuana use disorder. Environmental factors, such as being exposed to the abuse of this substance or others, living within an unstable environment, or going through a great deal of trauma can all add to an individual’s chances of abusing synthetic marijuana in the future.

Risk Factors:

Experiencing trauma

Possessing limited self-control

Personal or family history of other substance use disorders

Beginning to abuse drugs and/or alcohol at an early age

Suffering from childhood maltreatment

Experiencing trauma

Struggling with behavioral disinhibition

Personal or family history of conduct disorder or antisocial personality disorder

Ease of availability to the substance

Signs & Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of synthetic marijuana abuse

Since there are a number of chemicals that are used to produce synthetic marijuana, the signs and symptoms of the abuse of this drug can be more closely determined based on the type, severity, and duration of abuse. Some of the potential signs and symptoms of this form of abuse can include:

Behavioral symptoms:

Failing to fulfill obligations at work or at home

Social withdrawal

No longer participating in activities that were once enjoyed

Belligerence

Decline in occupational performance

Physical aggression

Continually increasing the dosage of the substance consumed or the frequency with which it is consumed

Inappropriate laughter

Physical symptoms:

Impaired motor coordination

Psychomotor agitation or retardation

Nausea

Vomiting

Panic attacks

Cognitive symptoms:

Cognitive impairment

Hallucinations

Delusions

Impaired judgment

Confusion

Paranoid ideation

Psychosis

Psychosocial symptoms:

Feelings of euphoria

Mania

Fluctuating moods

Anxiety

Emotional detachment

Agitation and irritability

Effects

Effects of synthetic marijuana abuse

The longer that a person continues to abuse synthetic marijuana, the more likely he is to experience a number of dangerous effects. However, even a single-time use of this substance can devastate an individual. Some of the many long- and short-term effects of synthetic marijuana abuse can include:

Decline in occupational functioning

Onset of, or worsening of current, symptoms of other mental health conditions

Self-harm

Chronic suicidal ideation

Stroke

Familial discord

Disturbed relationships

Heart attack

Need for hospitalization

Psychosis

Co-Occurring Disorders

Synthetic marijuana abuse and co-occurring disorders

Those with synthetic marijuana use disorder can also struggle with the following co-occurring conditions:

Antisocial personality disorder

Other substance use disorders

Conduct disorder

Withdrawal & Overdose

Effects of synthetic marijuana withdrawal and overdose

Effects of synthetic marijuana withdrawal: If synthetic marijuana is abused chronically, individuals put themselves at an increased risk for experiencing a period of withdrawal when they stop that abuse. The symptoms of withdrawal related to this substance will vary from person to person, however, some of the most common symptoms can include:

Flu-like symptoms

Hot and cold flashes

Violent temper tantrums

Experiencing hunger, yet not being able to keep food down

Nausea

Diarrhea

Cravings for synthetic marijuana

Effects of synthetic marijuana overdose: When a substance is consumed in an amount where an individual is incapable of metabolizing it, an overdose can occur. Signs that show that someone has overdosed on synthetic marijuana may include the following:

“After using real marijuana, I decided to try out the synthetic kind. I never would have thought that I would be addicted to it. Now, thanks to The Landing, I am 4 years sober.”

– Anonymous Client

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The Landing has been providing sophisticated and effective treatment in an intimate, home-like setting to men struggling with addiction in Newport, CA. Trusted and recommended by doctors and therapists, The Landing is considered the top drug rehab center for men in need of addiction and trauma treatment in SoCal.